Weight Gain and Marathon Training

Question
Hi John,

I am in my 4th week of training for my first marathon. My goal is to finish around 3:20--3:30. I have noticed in the past 4-5 weeks my weight has slowly increased about one pound every week.

I have not changed my daily calories (around 1600 at 5'3 126-130 lbs). Although I do have a weekend "cheat meal" after a long run I eat whole food, lower carb, high protein diet.

I can't imagine I'm gaining fat? Could this be due to water retention? I carry a lot of muscle mass in my legs but I feel "bigger."

It's very frustrating and not helping my running!!

Please help!

Thanks,

Allison

Answer
Hi Allison
First you are not getting fat and yes when you are weighting yourself depending on when, water weight could be as much as 3 pounds.If your feeling a little bigger it could be some dehydration since muscle is 70% water and it could mean your not recovering properly from previous workouts.Since you carry a lot of muscle mass in your legs than recovery and dehydration seems the culprit.The bottom line is with out knowing more about your total program this is the best i can offer you.If you want to discus this over the phone for more clarity you can call me any time here in albuquerque and get my number on my web site Allison.

All the best

John